PHOTO: The Warehouse Group is proposing to close The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery and Noel Leeming at the Northwood Supa Centa in September, because of a decline in customers.
Proposal to Close Three Major Retail Stores in Christchurch Shopping Centre Leaves Workers Shocked
The Warehouse Group’s Plan to Shut Down Three Stores Due to Declining Customers
Workers at three major retail stores located at a Christchurch shopping centre have been taken aback by a recent proposal that aims to close all three outlets. The Warehouse Group, responsible for managing The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery, and Noel Leeming at the Northwood Supa Centa, has announced its intention to shut down these stores in September. The decision comes as a response to a significant decline in customers.
Concerns Over Job Losses for Approximately 90 Workers
The closure of the three stores is expected to have a significant impact on the employment of around 90 workers. First Union’s southern regional secretary, Paul Watson, expressed concern about the lack of sufficient details justifying the proposal. Employees feel devastated by the prospect of losing their jobs and believe that the decision is shortsighted. They argue that the proposal fails to consider the projected population growth in the area and ignores the loyalty of a devoted customer base in the community.
Distraught Husband Seeks Help: Beloved Real Estate Agent Reported Missing
Employees Seek Extended Consultation Period
Union representatives are calling for an extension of the one-week consultation period. They believe that a longer timeframe is necessary to thoroughly assess the implications of the store closures and explore potential alternatives.
The Warehouse Group’s Perspective
Ian Carter, the chief store operations officer of The Warehouse Group, explained that the proposal aligns with the upcoming lease-end in September. He pointed out a shift in customer shopping habits over the past few years, with more customers choosing to shop in nearby stores instead.
Support for Workers Facing Redundancy
In the event that the Northwood Supa Centa stores are indeed closed, The Warehouse Group has pledged to support its affected team members by offering redeployment options across Christchurch.
The proposal to close the three major retail stores has sparked concerns among employees, who fear the loss of their jobs and believe that alternative solutions should be explored. As the situation unfolds, discussions between The Warehouse Group and employee representatives are ongoing. The outcome of these discussions will determine the fate of the stores and the livelihoods of their workers.
SOURCE: RNZ